Diet and Lifestyle Choices Based on Blood Type

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MAURA SHENKER Last Updated: Jul 18, 2015

Maura Shenker

Maura Shenker is a certified holistic nutritionist and health counselor who started her writing career in 2010. She leads group workshops, counsels individual clients and blogs about diet and lifestyle choices. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design, a Master of Fine Arts from The Ohio State University and is a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.

Vials of blood.Photo Credit Gitagraph/iStock/Getty Images

Naturopathic doctor Peter D'Adamo first published "Eat Right 4 Your Type" in 1996. The theory behind the plan is that your blood type determines the best foods, types of exercises and lifestyle choices for you. There is little hard evidence to back up D'Adamo's claims, but his diet and exercise recommendations are not extreme for any blood type and the lack of calorie-counting or portion control can make it easier for some people to follow. Always consult your doctor before beginning any new diet or exercise regimen.

Type O

According to D'Adamo, 46 percent of the population have type O blood and are born meat eaters. The oldest blood type, people with type O have "leadership, extroversion, energy and focus are among their best traits." Your high-protein diet should include plenty of meat, seafood, vegetables and fruit, but limit grains and beans. Kelp and seafood are especially good for people with type O blood, because D'Adamo believes they are more prone to thyroid disorders and can use the supplemental iodine to avoid weight gain, fluid retention and fatigue. Type O people should exercise vigorously and do something physical when feeling anxious.

Type A

A stands for agrarian -- and people with blood type A do very well with a vegetarian diet, D'Adamo believes. Follow a diet rich in soy-based proteins, legumes, whole grains, beans and fruit, but limit red meat, wheat and dairy products. Exercise lightly -- people with type A blood tend to suffer from stress and "favor a structured, rhythmic, harmonious life, surrounded by a positive, supportive community" says D'Adamo. Avoid crowds, loud noises, working long hours and violence in movies and on TV. Practice yoga and meditation and take at least two 20-minute breaks during your work day.

Type B

Blood type B is a balanced omnivore who has a tolerant digestive system and can enjoy most foods, according to D'Adamo's theory. Avoid wheat, buckwheat, corn, lentils, peanuts and sesame seeds and choose lamb, goat or venison instead of chicken. To lose weight, follow a diet rich in eggs, greens, liver and venison. People with type B blood are creative and should practice visualization techniques. Moderate exercise and plenty of sleep are needed by people with blood type B, D'Adamo says.

Type AB

AB is the most rare blood type -- less than 5 percent of the population has blood type AB. It's the newest, or most "modern" blood type and is a combination of types A and B. According to D'Adamo, people with AB blood have low levels of stomach acid and should limit red meats and starchy legumes such as lima beans. If you have AB blood, you may need to spend some time alone every day and need a combination of relaxing mediation and vigorous exercise. Try alternating yoga and aerobics, which will energize you.